NEW DISCOVERY

I am so happy, I can hardly stand it! See, it's the simple things that make a difference in life.

A while back something happened on my posting page that changed everything. The top row that you see as you create a post had changed. I know I did it somehow but don't know when or how. I went to post a picture one day and instead of the pic I was so used to seeing there were only words (in computer language) that was the pic but I couldn't see it unless I went to preview and then I couldn't write. You see my frustration. For weeks I have been suffering in silence and if any one has experienced this, I FEEL for you. I have worked hours to try and correct the problem, tried to contact blogger but that was WAY to frustrating!

This morning I decided I was going to ditch it all and get a new blog. I have become attached to the old one and have given the address out to a few people but since I don't get much feed back from it I figured it wouldn't matter any way.

So that's what I did! Only I could never get rid of this one with the history and all. So you could only imagine my surprise when I went to the dash board for one last goodbye and saw that my problem was fixed!!!! I don't know what made the difference but I am happy, no more wasted time and frustration (on this problem at least).

BEAUTIFUL LAKE CUMBERLAND

We finally made it to the lake! We have made the plans all summer and here it is two weeks before school starts and we finally made it. It was worth the wait. There have been some pretty upset people since last year when the decision was made to lower the water level to fix the dam. Now in my opinion if you have a problem that need fixing, you need to take care of it no matter what the cost. It's not like there aren't any other bodies of water to go to. So with all the drama I was anxious to see what all the talk was about.

When we arrived we brought the rain with us. For hours it poured! It was in the evening and with the much needed rain, that was OK. Joe set out for fishing at 5 am and didn't return until noon. He was very happy, but didn't bring back any fish. We will never know the real story but he said they caught a few big ones! We got packed up and headed out for a day of fun. The only problem was that there was little sunshine. But we came to get on the water and that is what we were going to do. We had a mission, Joe had found out about a place that was known for Indian artifacts and with a map we were determined to find it. We were successful but used a whole tank of gas. The scenery was beautiful! We saw a big turtle, lots of jumping fish the duck and goat that are in the pictures. The view is just down the road from my friends cabin. All of the rock that you see under the tree line is usually under water. The out crop that is pictured was FULL of crystal geodes that were embedded in the rock, beautiful!! Some thing I had never seen before.

A PIECE OF WORK

I just stopped in work for one client today. Naomi had swim lessons this morning so I planned it for after that so I wouldn't have so much running around. She knows the rules, no talking while myself or the client is talking. Sit and occupy yourself with the coloring books or look at one of my "kid" books. Well, Naomi can't stand being there and just sitting. She knows that Paula my good friend and nail tech works across the hall never minds her visiting so usually after I have my back turned she sneaks out. I can see them in the mirror and Paula's smiling knowing it is killing me but also knows that Naomi is NOT coming back. So I finish my client and Paula has finished hers and the lady comes to my door and says to me,
"Your daughter is such a piece of work."
Me, "Oh, no."
Lady, "Oh, I REALLY enjoyed talking to her, she is very interesting."
Me, "Thank you"
Looking over I see Paula laughing and after her client is gone I ask about Naomi and she says, "It's OK, everyone always loves her."

So I posted the pic to show you what we have here at the Howell home. This was taken with her begging me. I don't know why she would lay with a bowl of popcorn and want her picture taken, but she did!

CAMPING AT THE FALLS

We took off this weekend in search of an adventure. Our original plans involved going to the lake with friend but changed at the last minute. As you have learned from past post, once Joe gets the fishing bug he is not easily swayed and we all benefit!

I have many fond memories of Cumberland Falls park. We used to go often when we were growing up with my family. I don't remember camping here but there is always plenty to do. I felt like there was not enough time to do everything but we did some of the highlights.

When we got there and set up camp it was late Fri evening. We got the BEST spot tucked back in the campground but close to the playground, swim pool and pavilion, close to the bathroom but not too close. So we started looking around and saw that the pool was open after hours and after inquiring found out that it was open and free! How could we resist?! The kids had so much fun, Naomi has been taking swim lessons and what a better way to test out all she had learned than in a big pool. After a good nights sleep we set off for a long hike and a peek at the falls. The weather was perfect and we had such a good time with each other. Saw some cool things, (turtle)and not so cool things (copper head snake) but we kept our eyes open and enjoyed the day. Back to the camp for dinner and then off to the pavilion for a ho-down. Of course Elijah didn't want to be seen with us at that but Naomi LOVED it! (you might see that one later if the video turned out).

Oh, I guess you'd like to know about the fishing?? Well there was not much time for that so when we got back home Joe took off for a local fishing spot and scored!Playing a little cards.
Check out the guy in the boat, just to give you an idea how big the falls are!
Big old LIVING tree by the falls. We couldn't resist!!
Naomi is quite a dare devil! Joe went with her and that's all it took. I have some great pics of him on the diving board as well.
She REALLY loved doing the flip. Elijah couldn't figure out why his arm hurt so bad but we soon figured it out. She wasn't picky who threw her around, just that she GOT thrown around.

GOOD TIMES

I just wanted to share some pics of recent days. The first one is made in my parents back yard. It is the youngest 6 grandchildren. Emily, Naomi, Katherine, Levi, Sam and Christopher. Meme had just given them bubble wands and they were playing using them as lightsabers. These kids have a blast together! They all get along great and never can wait until they get together again. We have not seen them as much as we would like but it seems everyone is busy.
This is one of the best pastimes for a hot summer day. Elijah is going to join the chess club in high school so he needs all the practice he can get!
We are now in our cowgirl stage!
Trying out the cowboy look...
And the modern look.
It's all fun. We have really been having a good time with each other. The kids are normal and have their moments but life is good.

FROM THE MOUTH OF BABES

Going to bed last night, after i read Naomi a book.
Naomi, "I really miss Meme and Pop, Mamaw and Papaw."
Me, "Me too"
Naomi, "I really like it when they are around."
Me, "Me too"

This morning as we are getting our breakfast, out of the blue.
Naomi, "Can we call Tiki and see if she can come over?"
Me, "I don't think she can come over right now but we do need to call her."

TIME FOR A CHANGE

It seems like nothing in life stays the same for long. And we all know that once you get the idea to change, the sooner the better. Such is the case this weekend. We had a lot going on and in the processes talked to the right people to plant the seed. Such as when school returns Elijah won't be permitted to wear long hair. Now, I thought he was really attached to what he had grown out but a new do sounded fun. He couldn't wait to get home for me to cut it off! I thought he was kidding but apparently the hair was more work than what I thought. Plus the sooner to work on the forehead and neck tan the better! So off it came!!! Never one to be left out, Naomi was ready for a new do also. She wants to grow her hair out but will get a hair cut any time it is offered. Since my hair would never look like hers, I like to try the styles that I could never wear. I think it turned out great for both of them! We are still working on Elijah's, up or down, the verdict is out. Now, Levi's another story.

EXTENDED FAMILY PICS

I was looking through some of my pics and came up with these. They were made on the day of Aunt Nets funeral.

This first one is of Uncle Bill and Aunt Bob's family. Starting in the back left and going right are: Pete (Aunt Bob's brother), Mike (cousin), Glen (c in law), John (c), Mary (Pete's wife), Marijane (Mike's wife), Judy (Glen's wife), Nancy (c), Trent (Nancy's son), Nolia (Pete and Mary's daughter), Aunt Bob, and John's kids Rachel and Ashley.

This is Aunt Net and Uncle Jim's family: Megan, Christy, Jimmy and his wife, Lisa and Marissa. Uncle Jim is standing.

Last but not least is Aunt Cindy and Uncle Jim. Their daughter, Christy and her husband Trevor are on the right.

PASSING ON

I don't have a pic to post but just wanted to say a few words about my late Aunt Bob. She passed away yesterday morning in her home. She had been sick for a while but we all hoped she was on the upswing.

Growing up I have many great memories of her and her family. She always had a smile on her face and a friendly word to say. I felt like she always had time for us "little kids" and never seemed bothered by our constant noise.

The last time I saw her was at my other Aunts funeral and she was telling a funny story on herself about loosing her wig! She always had a way of making the best of a bad situation. She has held her own since her husband died nearly 20 years ago. I know she will be greatly missed by many.

May you rest in peace Barbara Salmon.

DANCING QUEEN

This was taken at camp a few weeks ago. She had a blast! The recording is a little off and the audio cuts off at the end but it was too cute to pass up. We are definately ready for Hawaii!!!

NEW PURSE

This first pic was taken while on our vacation to North Carolina. When we shop for souvenirs we always try to buy local. Since none of us really need a thing, we had a great time looking! Now I must tell you that I have a weakness for shoes and purses. I don't change often but I have been known to go through a few before I find what REALLY works. For years I have admired the ultra soft bags that I have found in Cherokee. I am also extremely frugal when it comes to myself and the price tags have always put me off. So this year we found some really cool bags and the material to make them in one store! (It just so happens to be the same store we found my wedding rings in 9 years ago.) I don't think we have been back to the store because when you get into the area everything starts to look the same to me. As soon as I walked in I fell in love with EVERYTHING. They had tons of original artwork!! I found this bag, checked out the $115 price tag and put it back. Looking around I found a barrel of really soft skins for a small fraction of the price of the purse. I had the brainstorm to get Joe to take a pic of several of the bags but this was my favorite. Came home and started to work. It really didn't take me long at all to complete my bag and I love it! Looking back at the pics now I am really glad I made my own bag because I was able to customize it to fit me. My bag cost around $35. I know it is not for everyone but it suits my taste well!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

We are thankful for Independence Day here at the Howell family. Grateful to all who have served our country. Thank you to all the men and women of the armed forces. As a bonus, we always like to celebrate!!!

ENJOYING THE DAY

Just wanted to take a moment and share with you the source of great joy for me. It is the home to so many song birds, butterflies, and all sorts of interesting creatures. We are in the process of completing the inside circle with brick pavers. Joe has put stones in front of the chiminea(?) and the goldfinch think they are in heaven. This morning there were several out on the rocks, on the edge of the chiminea looking at the twigs and the rest were dusting themselves in the sand. I never realized how much I enjoy nature until I was around it a lot. Now I don't think I could ever do with out it! Of course I am a fair weather girl, I can enjoy it from the distance if needed.

THE LATEST, THE GREATEST

My family is growing up, and with growing up there comes changes. This is one of the latest changes. Family bike riding!!! We have always like to walk, at least get out and enjoy the great outdoors and get some exercise while we're at it. A few years ago Elijah was diagnosed with inflammation of his heel pad (which is extremely painful, so I am told) so the walks stopped. He will suffer when we go on family outings but we always try and drive as much as we can to help him out. He has been a good sport about it and has received many massages from me in the process. The one thing he has always been able to do is ride his bike (or motorcycle) but with little kids that didn't ride, he always got to go it alone. That changed last year when Levi learned to ride but you know how it is when you first learn, slowwwww. This year I decided that with Naomi getting big she really needs to learn too. Of course with two inexperience riders I was scared but then I saw the coolest thing, the trail a bike. It cost as much as a new bike but it has opened our world UP! Levi still scares me but I ride behind him like an announcer," slow down, glance behind you, OK you're doing great, STOP, stay on the right side of the road, stand up, keep pedaling...." Since we got our new addition we have ridden miles! My legs are wondering what is going on (I tried the stationary bike this winter and would quit promply at 2o minutes) but it feels so good. Elijah even said he enjoyed it but wished we were invisable, ha ha. I guess it's the cool factor and he's going to suffer one way or another. Bringing home baby.
He really wanted to ride her but he's not ready. It takes a lot of muscle and A LOT of balance!







Mom, this is for you!!!
My mom made this blanket for Naomi. It is small but perfect to carry around. Naomi loves babies and stuffed animals so this blanket has seen some action. Naomi has slept with it, took it on vacation, and wrapped her babies in it. She puts it down for weeks at a time but we soon see it again. As I said in the first part of the post we are growing up. You know what comes with growing up, new styles. She sees me being crafty and changing things around and likes to get into it to. I really have to watch her because she comes up with some really wild ideas. This one wasn't so wild so I helped her with it. I had just taken out her hair wrap (string tied around a strand of hair) that her babysitter had done for her weeks past. She says to me "I want to wear this" referring to her blanket. So I tie it around her neck like a cape. "No, I want to wear it like a dress." I look at the string laying in front of me and a few minutes later she was happy as could be, even wore it to the video store much to Elijah's dismay. One of these days he's going to learn were not so bad after all, just a little different.

Naomi giving herself bunny ears.
A little see through but everything was covered up. She was sooo proud!